Bulgarian Medical Union and NHIF sign new healthcare framework agreement

The National Health Insurance Fund (NHIF) and the Bulgarian Medical Union (BMU) are set to sign a new framework agreement effective through the end of 2028. The agreement includes a 4.4% increase in funding for general practitioners and specialists compared to the previous year, alongside a 10% increase in the prices of clinical pathways starting September 1.

Dr. Asen Mejidiev, Deputy Director of the NHIF, stated the goal is to improve patient prevention and increase outpatient medical activity to reduce hospitalizations. The agreement also introduces provisions for remote prescription issuance for patients unable to visit their doctors in person, such as those in quarantine, for up to six months following their last documented exam.

However, Dr. Nikolay Branzalov, Chairman of the BMU, expressed concerns regarding the adequacy of the funding. He noted that while the NHIF budget sees an 8.5% increase across all sectors, he believes prices for medical activities should rise by at least 25% to ensure adequate care. Branzalov highlighted that certain areas, such as hemodialysis and laboratory services, did not receive price increases, and warned that laboratory and paraclinical specialties may face no increases in outpatient care by 2026.